Genital warts or sometimes called venereal warts or condylomata acuminata are the result of HPV or human papilloma virus. These warts can appear in the shape of a cauliflower or can appear flat with stalks. They can grow either on the genital area, around the rectum or on the genital itself.

What causes genital warts?

HPV or human papilloma virus is the main cause of genital warts. It is the type of infection that is acquired through sexual intercourse. However, there are people who have human papilloma virus but do not have genital warts.

When do people get genital warts?

As was mentioned, genital warts are caused by human papilloma virus. This virus is acquired through sex. And in most cases, the virus manifests in the form of warts. Genital warts can be acquired indirectly. If one individual uses things infected with the virus, he can get genital warts. Aside from this, genital warts are acquired by babies upon birth. Although this case is rare, the result can be life-threatening.

What are the signs of genital warts?

Usually, genital warts appear 2-4 weeks after the infection while in other cases; it would take months before genital warts to be visible.

For males, genital warts can appear underneath the foreskin of the penis. Some males develop genital warts on the area around the rectum. There are also instances where warts appear on the urethra.

One distinct characteristic of the genital warts is that they don't usually hurt. However, warts can be itchy at times. In an occasion where there are appearances of cauliflower-like or flat with stalks flesh on or around the genitals or rectum, it can be suspected that there can be genital warts.

Are genital warts contagious?

Genital warts are contagious. They can easily spread during anal, oral or vaginal sex from a person infected with the warts. Skin-to-skin contact also increases the chances of acquiring genital warts but it is only limited during sex. If a person without warts has engaged in sex with a person infected with it there is a 2:3 chances of having an infection and this will develop within the period of 3 months.

What are the known treatments for genital warts?

Present medicine advancement has yet to create universal treatment for HPV but treatments for genital warts exists. Usually, Trichloroacetic acid (TCA), 5% 5-fluorouracil cream, 0.5% podofilox solution, 20% podophyllin antimitotic solution, and imiquimod cream are some of the prescribed treatments for genital warts. However, if not treated, genital warts can naturally disappear.

What are the effects of genital warts in male infertility?

Research suggests that genital warts affect male infertility. It is said that the genital warts impair sperm function thus disenabling the male the ability to help conceive a child during intercourse.

For genital warts are the results only of the sexually transmitted infection, male infertility can also be attributed on other STI.

What could be done in order to prevent male infertility caused by genital warts?

Safe sex is the best way to prevent the acquisition of genital warts. It is also suggested that avoiding multiple sexual partners would lessen the risk of acquiring this warts.

If you feel that you have acquired genital warts, seek for medical attention.